Discover the Most Inspiring and Memorable Quotes from 'Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close' Book

...

If things were easy to find, they probably wouldn't be worth finding. This quote from Jonathan Safran Foer's novel, Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, sets the tone for a book that explores the complex emotions of grief, loss, and the search for meaning in a world that often seems chaotic and unforgiving.

One of the most striking aspects of the novel is its use of multiple narrators. The story is told through the perspectives of nine-year-old Oskar Schell, his father Thomas, and his grandfather, who survived the bombing of Dresden during World War II. As we move between these different voices, we get a sense of how each character is struggling with their own past and present traumas.

Another memorable quote from the book is, I started inventing things. And then I couldn't stop. Oskar, the precocious young protagonist, copes with the loss of his father by throwing himself into a quest to find a lock that matches a mysterious key he discovers in his father's closet. As he travels through New York City, meeting a range of eccentric characters along the way, he also begins to invent elaborate mechanisms to help him deal with his anxiety.

The novel is also notable for its use of visual elements, including photographs, maps, and typography. Foer plays with the form of the book itself, using blank pages and unconventional layouts to create a sense of disorientation and fragmentation. This experimentation with form mirrors the characters' struggles to make sense of their own experiences and memories.

Why didn't I learn to treat everything like it was the last time? This poignant question, asked by Oskar's grandmother, captures the sense of regret and missed opportunities that permeates the novel. As the characters grapple with the aftermath of 9/11, they are forced to confront the fragility of life and the fleeting nature of human connections.

Despite its heavy themes, Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close is also a deeply compassionate and hopeful book. Through Oskar's journey, we see how the act of searching can be a form of healing, and how even the most unlikely connections can offer comfort and solace.

One of the most memorable characters in the novel is the renter, a man who has lost his ability to speak due to a traumatic experience. Despite his silence, he becomes a source of wisdom and guidance for Oskar, teaching him how to listen and be present with others.

As the novel unfolds, we also learn more about Oskar's father, a man who struggled with depression and ultimately died in the World Trade Center attacks. Through his father's letters and memories, Oskar begins to understand the complexity of adult emotions and the ways in which even the people we love most can be flawed and imperfect.

I like to see people reunited, I like to see people run to each other, I like the kissing and the crying, I like the impatience, the stories that the mouth can't tell fast enough, the ears that aren't big enough, the eyes that can't take in all of the change. This quote, spoken by a character near the end of the novel, captures the sense of joy and relief that comes with connection and reunion. Despite the tragedies and losses that the characters have experienced, they are able to find moments of beauty and grace in their relationships with each other.

Ultimately, Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It reminds us that even in the darkest times, there is always the possibility for growth, connection, and hope.

In conclusion, Jonathan Safran Foer's novel Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close is a powerful exploration of grief, loss, and the search for meaning in a world that often feels chaotic and unpredictable. Through its use of multiple narrators, unconventional form, and compassionate characters, the book offers a moving portrait of the human experience.


The Power of Quotes in Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, written by Jonathan Safran Foer, is a novel that explores the themes of love, loss, trauma, and healing. The novel is unique in its use of quotes, which are scattered throughout the book and serve to provide insight into the characters' thoughts and emotions. In this article, we will explore some of the most powerful quotes from the novel and analyze their significance.

The Importance of Memory

I like to see people reunited, I like to see people run to each other, I like the kissing and the crying, I like the impatience, the stories that the mouth can't tell fast enough, the ears that aren't big enough, the eyes that can't take in all of the change, I like the hugging, the bringing together, the end of missing someone.

This quote, spoken by the protagonist, Oskar Schell, highlights the importance of memory in the novel. Oskar is grieving the loss of his father, who died in the 9/11 attacks, and he often reflects on memories of their time together. This quote shows that Oskar values the emotional connections that memories can bring and longs for the comfort of being reunited with loved ones.

The Complexity of Grief

It's a shame that we have to live, but it's a tragedy that we get to live only one life, because if I'd had two lives, I would have spent one of them with her.

This quote, spoken by Oskar's grandfather, highlights the complexity of grief and the pain of lost opportunities. Oskar's grandfather is mourning the loss of his wife, who died years ago, and he regrets that he only had one life to spend with her. This quote shows how grief can make us reflect on the past and wish for a different outcome.

The Search for Connection

In bed that night I invented a special drain that would be underneath every pillow in New York, and would connect to the reservoir. Whenever people cried themselves to sleep, the tears would all go to the same place, and in the morning the weatherman could report if the water level of the Reservoir of Tears had gone up or down, and you could know if New York is in heavy boots.

This quote, spoken by Oskar, highlights his search for connection and desire to understand the emotions of others. Oskar is a sensitive and empathetic character, and this quote shows how he imagines a world where people's tears are collected and shared, creating a sense of community and understanding.

The Healing Power of Art

Pretend that every single person you meet has a sign around his or her neck that says, 'Make me feel important.' Not only will you succeed in sales, you will succeed in life.

This quote, spoken by Oskar's grandmother, highlights the healing power of art and the importance of empathy. Oskar's grandmother is an artist who creates images of people with signs around their necks, and this quote shows how she sees the value in making others feel important. This quote also speaks to the theme of connection, as it suggests that we can find meaning in our interactions with others.

The Complexity of Love

I like you so much I don't know what to do with it. My heart beats so fast when I know I'm going to see you again. And then when you go away it's like... I don't know... it's like I don't care, but my heart knows you're gone.

This quote, spoken by Oskar's mother, highlights the complexity of love and the way it can be both exhilarating and painful. Oskar's mother is struggling to come to terms with her husband's death, and this quote shows how her feelings for Oskar are both a source of comfort and a reminder of her loss.

The Search for Meaning

Why didn't I learn to treat everything like it was the last time. My greatest regret was how much I believed in the future.

This quote, spoken by Oskar's father, highlights the search for meaning in the face of tragedy. Oskar's father is reflecting on his life and the choices he made, and this quote shows how he wishes he had lived more fully in the present rather than assuming there would always be a future.

The Power of Language

Words are impossible. They exist only in the dictionary.

This quote, spoken by Oskar's grandfather, highlights the power of language and the way it can fail us in times of grief. Oskar's grandfather is struggling to find the right words to express his emotions, and this quote shows how language can feel inadequate in the face of overwhelming emotions.

The Importance of Empathy

I started to imagine all these people living their lives for the first time, and their hopes and dreams, and I realized that beneath every life is a pile of shit.

This quote, spoken by Oskar's grandfather, highlights the importance of empathy and the way it can help us understand the experiences of others. Oskar's grandfather is reflecting on the diversity of human experience, and this quote shows how he sees the value in recognizing that everyone has struggles and challenges to overcome.

The Search for Closure

There will always be more tears than answers.

This quote, spoken by Oskar, highlights the difficulty of finding closure in the face of loss. Oskar is searching for answers about his father's death, and this quote shows how he recognizes that there may never be a satisfactory explanation for what happened.

The Power of Connection

Why do you love me? Because I do.

This exchange between Oskar and his mother highlights the power of connection and the way it can transcend words and explanations. Oskar's mother is struggling to articulate her feelings for him, but this quote shows how their bond is based on more than just words or actions – it is a deep and profound connection that defies explanation.

Conclusion

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close is a novel that explores the complexities of grief, love, and human connection. The use of quotes throughout the book serves to provide insight into the characters' thoughts and emotions, highlighting the power of language to express – and fail to express – the depth of our experiences. By examining some of the most powerful quotes from the novel, we can gain a deeper understanding of its themes and the ways in which they resonate with our own lives.


Exploring the Profound Quotes of Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close is a novel that delves into the life of a young boy named Oskar Schell who lost his father in the 9/11 tragedy. The book is written by Jonathan Safran Foer, and it has become a classic novel that explores themes such as grief, loss, love, identity, and hope. Throughout the book, there are several quotes that capture the essence of the characters' emotions and experiences. In this article, we will explore some of the most profound quotes from Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close.

The only way to stop grieving is to stop loving.

This quote speaks volumes about the nature of grief. Grief is not just about missing someone; it is about missing the love that you shared with that person. When you lose someone you love, the pain comes from the fact that you can no longer experience the joy of being with them. In Oskar's case, he lost his father, whom he loved deeply. The quote is a reminder that love and grief are interconnected, and one cannot exist without the other.

Incredibly close means incredibly far away.

This quote is a reflection of Oskar's experience of feeling close to his father even though he is no longer physically present. Oskar carries his father's memory with him, and he often feels like his father is still with him. However, at the same time, he also feels like his father is incredibly far away because he cannot communicate with him or touch him. The quote captures the paradoxical nature of grief, where the person you miss the most is also the furthest away.

We're all different people all through our lives.

This quote highlights the idea that identity is not fixed; it is constantly changing. Oskar's journey throughout the book is one of self-discovery, where he learns more about himself and the people around him. The quote suggests that we are not defined by a single moment or experience in our lives. Instead, we are a collection of all the different experiences we have had, and these experiences shape who we are.

I wanted to tell her everything, but I couldn't.

This quote is a reflection of Oskar's struggle with communication. Oskar has difficulty expressing his emotions, and this often leads to misunderstandings and frustration. The quote captures the feeling of wanting to share everything with someone but not being able to find the words. It is a reminder of the importance of communication in relationships and how it can be challenging to express ourselves fully.

Sometimes I can hear my bones straining under the weight of all the lives I'm not living.

This quote is a reflection of the idea that there are many paths that we could have taken in life, but we only get to choose one. Oskar is a curious and imaginative child who wonders what his life would be like if he had made different choices. The quote captures the feeling of regret and longing for the lives we could have lived.

Why didn't I learn to treat everything like it was the last time?

This quote is a reflection of the idea that life is fleeting, and we should cherish every moment. Oskar regrets not appreciating the time he had with his father and wishes he had treated every moment as if it were the last. The quote is a reminder to live in the present and appreciate the people and experiences we have in our lives.

I like to see people reunited, I like to see people run to each other, I like the kissing and the crying, I like the impatience, the stories that the mouth can't tell fast enough, the ears that aren't big enough, the eyes that can't take in all of the change, I like the hugging, the bringing together, the end of missing someone.

This quote is a reflection of the idea that human connection is essential to our wellbeing. Oskar loves to see people reunited because it is a reminder of the power of love and connection. The quote captures the joy of being with the people we love and the pain of missing them when they are gone.

I feel too much. That's what's going on.

This quote is a reflection of Oskar's sensitivity and emotional depth. Oskar feels deeply, and this often overwhelms him. The quote captures the idea that some people feel more intensely than others and that this can be both a blessing and a curse. It is a reminder of the importance of self-care and managing our emotions effectively.

I'm not sure what I'm feeling. I'm not sure what I'm going to do. I'm not sure what I want.

This quote is a reflection of the complexity of human emotions. Oskar is often unsure of what he is feeling, and this makes it difficult for him to make decisions. The quote captures the idea that emotions can be confusing and that it is okay not to have all the answers. It is a reminder that we are all human and that navigating our emotions can be challenging.

The more that you love someone, the more they can hurt you.

This quote is a reflection of the vulnerability that comes with love. When we love someone, we open ourselves up to the possibility of being hurt. The quote captures the idea that love is not always easy, and it can be painful at times. However, it is also a reminder that love is worth the risk and that the joy it brings is worth the pain.

Conclusion

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close is a book that explores the complexities of human emotions and experiences. The quotes in the book capture the essence of the characters' feelings and thoughts, and they serve as a reminder of the universal nature of human emotions. From grief and loss to love and hope, the book covers a range of themes that resonate with readers. The quotes in this article highlight some of the most profound moments in the book, and they serve as a testament to the power of literature to capture the human experience.

Point of View on Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close Book Quotes

Overview

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close is a novel written by Jonathan Safran Foer. The book is composed of multiple narratives, including the story of nine-year-old Oskar Schell, who lost his father during the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Throughout the novel, there are many quotes that reflect the themes of loss, grief, and hope.

Pros of Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close Book Quotes

1. Reflects real-life situations: The book quotes often reflect real-life situations, making it relatable to many people who have experienced loss or grief.2. Inspiring: Some of the quotes are inspiring and offer encouragement to readers who may be going through difficult times.3. Thought-provoking: The quotes in the book are thought-provoking and encourage readers to think deeply about the themes presented in the book.4. Emotional: The quotes in the book are emotional and powerful, making them memorable and impactful.

Cons of Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close Book Quotes

1. Can be depressing: The book quotes can be depressing and difficult to read, as they deal with heavy topics such as death and grief.2. Not everyone will relate: Some readers may not relate to the themes presented in the book, making the quotes less impactful for them.3. May be too philosophical: Some readers may find the philosophical nature of some of the quotes to be overwhelming or confusing.4. Can be repetitive: Some readers may find that the quotes in the book are repetitive, as the same themes are explored throughout the novel.

Table Comparison of Keywords

Keyword Pros Cons
Real-life situations Reflects real-life situations N/A
Inspiring Inspiring and encouraging Can be depressing
Thought-provoking Encourages deep thinking May be too philosophical
Emotional Memorable and impactful Can be repetitive
In conclusion, the quotes in Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close are emotional, thought-provoking, and inspiring. However, they can be repetitive and depressing for some readers. Overall, the book offers a unique perspective on themes of loss and grief, making it a worthwhile read for those interested in exploring these topics.

Closing Message for Visitors on Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close Book Quotes

Thank you for taking the time to read our article on Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close book quotes. We hope that you have enjoyed reading it and have found some valuable insights into the book's themes, characters, and plot.

The book is a masterpiece by Jonathan Safran Foer that explores the aftermath of the September 11 terrorist attacks through the eyes of a nine-year-old boy named Oskar. The story takes you on an emotional journey filled with pain, love, and hope, as Oskar sets out on a mission to find the lock that matches a key his father left behind before he died in the attacks.

The book is filled with powerful quotes that capture the essence of the story and will stay with you long after you've finished reading it. Some of the most memorable quotes include:

I like to see people reunited, I like to see people run to each other, I like the kissing and the crying, I like the impatience, the stories that the mouth can't tell fast enough, the ears that aren't big enough, the eyes that can't take in all of the change, I like the hugging, the bringing together, the end of missing someone.

This quote speaks to the book's overarching theme of love and human connection. Despite the tragedy of the attacks, people still find a way to come together and support one another. It's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

Why didn't I learn to treat everything like it was the last time. My greatest regret was how much I believed in the future.

This quote highlights Oskar's struggle to come to terms with his father's death and his own mortality. It's a poignant reminder to live in the moment and cherish every experience.

I felt, that night, on that stage, under that skull, incredibly close to everything in the universe, but also extremely alone. I wondered, for the first time in my life, if life was worth all the work it took to live.

This quote captures Oskar's sense of isolation and disillusionment as he struggles to make sense of the world around him. It's a powerful moment that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt lost or alone.

Overall, Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close is a book that will stay with you long after you've finished reading it. It's a poignant reminder of the power of love, human connection, and the resilience of the human spirit. We hope that our article has inspired you to read the book and discover its many treasures for yourself.

Thank you for visiting our blog, and we hope to see you again soon!


People Also Ask About Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close Book Quotes

What are some of the most famous quotes from Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close?

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close is a novel by Jonathan Safran Foer that tells the story of a young boy named Oskar Schell who lost his father in the 9/11 attacks. Some of the most famous quotes from the book include:

  • I like to see people reunited, I like to see people run to each other, I like the kissing and the crying, I like the impatience, the stories that the mouth can't tell fast enough, the ears that aren't big enough, the eyes that can't take in all of the change, I like the hugging, the bringing together, the end of missing someone.
  • Why didn't I learn to treat everything like it was the last time. My greatest regret was how much I believed in the future.
  • I hope that one day you will have the experience of doing something you do not understand for someone you love.

What is the significance of the quote I am so afraid of dying without ever being really seen?

This quote is spoken by one of the characters in the book, a man named William Black who lost his family in the Dresden bombings during World War II. The quote speaks to the idea that many people feel unseen or unheard in their lives, and that this can be a source of great fear and sadness.

What is the theme of Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close?

The theme of Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close is the search for connection and meaning in the wake of tragedy. The main character, Oskar, is trying to come to terms with the loss of his father and the events of 9/11, and in doing so he embarks on a journey of self-discovery that ultimately leads him to find connections with others and to understand the importance of love and human connection.